November 22, 2017 – Lebanon Independence Day

I would like to take this opportunity to extend my best wishes to members of the Canadian Lebanese community on the occasion of the 74th Lebanese Independence Day.

Independence Day is observed on November 22nd to commemorate the liberation from the French Mandate on November 8, 1943, when Lebanese officials amended the Lebanese Constitution to abolish the Mandate. This amendment led to their arrest by French authorities. They were later released on November 22, 1943 due to national and international pressure to fully recognize Lebanon’s Independence.

Toronto is a proud multicultural city that embraces a wide variety of cultures and faiths. Our city flourishes because of the diversity of people who have chosen to make Toronto their home. As we celebrate Canada 150 this year, it is important to recognize each and every community that plays a part in enhancing Toronto’s social and cultural landscape.

As the Newcomer’s Advocate with the City of Toronto I strongly believe that we must work to together to promote togetherness. We must Respect our newcomer communities. We must Accept our newcomer communities. We should Celebrate our diversity and Embrace our different cultures and traditions, because we are all part of the human RACE.